In a bid to broaden its global appeal, the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) is making strategic efforts to attract African-American tourists.
The initiative aims to offer a range of immersive cultural experiences and adventures, inviting travelers from the African-American community to explore and connect with the rich heritage and natural beauty that Kenya has to offer.
According to citizen.digital, the Ag CEO of KTB, John Chirchir, highlighted Kenya’s unique appeal as a destination that combines cultural richness with biodiversity. Chirchir expressed his enthusiasm about including the African American segment which represents 13% of the US population and ranks as Kenya’s third-best performing tourism market.
READ: Africa: Come 2028, Kenya Tourism Board unveils plans to get 5.5 million tourist arrivals
According to Chirchir, KTB’s goal is to “capture their interest, encouraging them to establish not only a connection with their African heritage but also with Kenya’s prominent role in global conservation efforts.” During a recent familiarization tour, travel advisors and influencers explored Nairobi, the Maasai Mara, and the Kenyan coast, gaining destination knowledge and providing valuable marketing insights.
Personalities like Gbenga Akinnagbe, Angelique Miles, Bevy Smith, and Iesha Reed participated in the week-long trip, leveraging their influence to reshape perceptions about Kenya and Africa.
Chirchir emphasized the importance of using influencers to present a diverse and rich image of Kenya, countering stereotypes perpetuated by foreign media. According to KTB, Kenya aims to showcase its cultural wealth to a broader audience by using cultural festivals aligning with the preferences of culturally inclined global travelers.